Sky’s the limit for Robert after sealing pilot-scheme place

A serviceman at RAF Boulmer is celebrating after achieving a place on a prestigious scholarship course.

SAC Robert Emsley, an Aerospace System Operator, has secured a spot on the Junior Rank Pilots Scholarship Scheme (JRPSS).

The course is run on behalf of The RAF Charitable Trust and the RAF Flying Club Association and saw 460 applications for the 30 places on offer.

The JRPSS is one of the many development opportunities open to RAF personnel.

It comprises ground training and airborne instruction in a light aircraft of up to 15 hours following the light aircraft pilot’s licence syllabus.

The flying hours will be logged and may lead to the award of a full licence.

SAC Emsley was delighted to accept the place.

He said: “I am thrilled to have been selected from such a high number of applicants.

“After having some previous experience of flying as a civilian at Shoreham Airport, I look forward to completing the scholarship and hopefully in the future attaining the award of a full light aircraft licence.”

SAC Emsley realised his interested in flying when he joined the Air Cadets.

The Air Cadet Organisation is a military youth organisation open to people aged 12 to 20.

Activities are usually free or at minimal cost and opportunities exist for cadets to go flying, gliding, shooting, adventure training, represent their area and country in various sports, gain nationally-recognised qualifications and visit other countries.